Summer tradition...Whispers by Robin Jones Gunn

ALOHA, fashionistas!


Every year I take a much needed vacation on the sandy beaches of Hawaii...okay not really. Oh, but, wouldn't that be nice?! Actually my summer tradition is to read Whispers by Robin Jones Gunn. The heroine, Teri Moreno leaves Oregon to visit her older sister in Maui. This book, besides Little Women, is by far my favorite book ever.

I love Teri, she's bold, lovely, and spicy. Gunn's description of the island aromas and foods makes me feel like I'm hanging out on the beach, lathered in sun tan lotion, enjoying the breeze.

Whispers is set in the mid 90's which I happen to love because that's when I was a teenager and have many youthful and fun memories. Teri finds herself in a bizarre situation when she returns to the island, hoping to rekindle the hot romance she had the previous summer with marine biologist, Mark. Somehow, their communication is stilted and their romance appears to be sinking. Scott, a guy from Teri's high school years, and a popular heart throb former football player makes it no secret he's interested and Teri finds him simply irresistible. She can't help but notice the joyful Australian former surfer that seems to be turning up where ever she goes. All these men give Teri quiet a lot to think about and she must make a decision on one of them before she leaves the island.

Gunn's story is delightful with humor, romance, and suspense. Spoiler alert: You won't know who Teri chooses until the end of the book and it's the best!

Oil yourself up, put on some sunglasses, and join me in Hawaii. You'll be glad you did!

For your viewing pleasure I added two different covers from Gunn's three editions. First photo is of the first edition, obviously!


Until next time, Fashionistas!



VS 








Disclaimer: The photos used in this blog belong to author of blog.

Loving...book review on reviews

Hello Fashionistas! 

Happy summer season to you!

I'm loving the fact that I've been able to catch up on some reading. How about you?

Today's book review is going to be on Karen Kingsbury's Loving. It's the fourth and final book in the Bailey Flanigan series. A very popular series with Christian women across the nation.

I hadn't read the entire series, just the first and last book. I liked Bailey but I felt that I could relate more to the Baxter family or other characters my age. I checked Amazon to see what other readers were saying, as KK has quite a following. I was stunned to see that there were many angry readers.

Spoiler alert!

Bailey doesn't end up with Cody Coleman. Many readers found themselves attached to the idea that Cody and Bailey would ride off into the sunset. When that didn't happen they felt betrayed. I can understand that but KK never made any promises, that's the roller coaster of fiction/romance/series. I personally want a surprise ending if at all possible. I feel like what's the point of reading a book if I know how it will end.

I'm going to touch on a few issues readers said they had with Bailey and I can only give my opinion based on the first and last book in the series, since that's all that I read. 

The first book did portray Bailey as too perfect, as readers had complained. Not only could I not relate to Bailey because of her age but also things seemed to go pretty smoothly for her. Life seemed pretty peachy, you know? On the flip side, as Christians, don't we all have those seasons where things are going well? I have. Then a new season comes and the storms come with it. I think it's fair to say Bailey hit a new season in the final book. While reading Loving I found that Bailey did have relatable struggles.

Here's why: 

In a few parts of the book Bailey did get jealous. She was tempted. She was confused. She made rash decisions without fully consulting God. There were a few instances in which had Bailey not been close to God she could have made a real mess of her life. So...in my opinion I definitely think that Christian women can relate to her struggles. They were very real. Bailey was real.

Other complaints from Amazon reviewers: 

The whole Christians in Hollywood issue. It seems to be pretty trendy in Christian fiction but not everyone can pull it off like KK. On Amazon some of the reviews I read were people complaining that this wasn't realistic. My opinion, yes and no. Are there Christians in Hollywood? Yes. Think Candace Cameron-Bure who actually starred in ABC family's Make or Break it. Everyone who watched it knows there were some scandals in that, notice Cameron-Bure didn't compromise her faith by doing/saying things that were inappropriate. How else are Christians supposed to witness if they're not working regular jobs, or in this case working with other celebrities? I believe if a Christian is strong it's an excellent platform.

Are movie stars and singers a huge deal in American culture? Absolutely! KK is only tapping into what's fresh and new. I think that's what sets her books apart from other Christian books I've read. She has tackled some real heart breaking issues that our country has dealt with. I commend her for being brave enough to do it, doing it well, and honoring those who have lost their lives in war in a tasteful manner. This lady is very much in with what's hot and happening and that makes her stories seem more realistic.

Besides, it's fiction! Hello! Writers are allowed and encouraged to really branch out and do something new or even trendy. Why do you think there's suddenly a plethora of Amish fiction out there? Because it's hot and publishers know that. I, for one, appreciate KK's lifting me out of my sometimes mundane life and whirling me into Los Angeles or Bloomington. It's great!

I give Loving 5 stars:

It's well written.
Bailey and Brandon's story is so romantic.
Thankfully KK didn't just throw Cody and Bailey together at the end because it's what long time readers wanted.
Christians in Hollywood is quite fascinating.
The story is layered with every emotion.
KK is probably the best author in her genre when it comes to dramatic stories.
Bailey was able to show her weaknesses and how God raised her out of it.

All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I think KK is a superb novelist and all of her books should be turned into mini series on Hallmark or something. Really? I wonder why that has happened. When and if it does, I'll be the first one on the couch with popcorn, ready to dive into another one of KK's amazing, heart warming stories.

This is my review and I'm sticking with it!




Until next time, Fashionistas!




VS








Disclaimer: This photo does not belong to the author of this blog.

The Duck Commander Family...book review

Hello Fashionistas!


The nation seems swept away by the hard working reality stars from Louisiana. Every week on the A&E network, fans watch the latest adventures of the Robertson family and sources have said season three's finale brought in a whopping 8 million viewers.

There is something that sets these stars apart from your average reality stars on TV...their faith. It's clear that this is a family that takes their devotion to Jesus seriously and that's refreshing in times like these. The comical episodes are just the icing on the cake.

Like many others I found myself fascinated by the family, their history, and lives before their successful business and reality TV show. I bough the book and didn't even mind spending the extra money on the hardcover edition because I adore this family.

Here's my review!

The narrators of the book are husband and wife Willie and Korie Robertson. They share their lives before Duck Commander, the multi-million dollar duck call company. Many people are mistaken when they think the reality show brought riches to this family. The truth is their family was already doing well and the show has only brought in new fans and revenue according to sources.

I'm a visual person and wondered if I would enjoy the book as much I enjoy the show every Wednesday.
It's very clear that the Robertson family view Jesus as their foundation. There are some parts that will leave you absolutely speechless. Willie and Korie are forthcoming about how the business began and other family issues that occurred early on.

It is a well written book and not confusing even though there are two narrators. It's definitely a page turner and will keep you laughing.  The colorful family photos are an added bonus. As a Christian woman I enjoyed the lessons and scripture. Another wonderful thing added is the recipes and background on them.

All in all I think this book is a five star read! For readers that enjoy the biography genre this is a must read! It's definitely not boring, just like the show there's doesn't seem to be any lulls at all.

Any Duck Dynasty fan will definitely appreciate an inside look into the Robertson's lives and business. I believe this book is not only entertaining but full of wisdom and a tool to minister to the lost or broken. If this lovely couple ever decides to pen another book I will definitely buy it so get your copy and enjoy, Jack!






Until next time, Fashionistas, 





VS




Disclaimer: This photo does not belong to the author of this blog. 

The Chance...book review

Hello Fashionistas,

Summer is just around the corner and I don't know about you but I'm ready. It's usually blazing hot here in Texas but it's a nice change from the cool and unpredictable weather during the rest of the year.

As you may have noticed I've been attempting to keep up the blog by doing weekly reviews on books I've read over the past few months. I will continue to do this more as the summer progresses. There are currently a few books on my nightstand that are calling my name!

 Here is my review on Karen's Kingsbury's The Chance.

I usually only order books online used but when I heard about The Chance I knew that I had to get it ASAP! I've read several of Karen's books. She's good and I don't know why all her books haven't been turned into miniseries on TV. She is amazing!

I finished this book within a day because I couldn't put it down. Karen's book should come with a warning label. "Do NOT read late at night" "Do NOT read if you have a busy day with much to do." Yeah...her books are that good.

The heroine is Ellie and without giving too much away she moves away after a scandal that involves one of her parents. Ellie's best friend is Nolan an avid basketball player. The story follows both characters over the years. Before Ellie left they wrote letters to each other and buried them and were to open them years later.

This was a beautiful story about how life changes and sometimes people don't, well at least their feelings for one another. I did cry and that should definitely be another warning to readers. You almost always need a box of tissues beside you. Karen's books usually make me cry.

Bottom line...READ this book. And when you're done share the book with others.




Until next time, fashionistas!




VS




Disclaimer: This photo belongs to the author of the blog. 

Picture Perfect...book review

Hello Fashionistas!

I hope you're enjoying this spring time weather. We're quickly heading into summer so get ready with your sunblock, beach towels, and book to read pool side!

I've been behind on reviewing books for the past several months, sadly I haven't been able to read many since I've been knee deep in personal projects.

Here's my review on Janice Thompson's Picture Perfect.

Hannah McDermott is in a fierce competition with arch rival Drew Kinkaid. Who will be the super star photographer of Galveston, Texas? Will Hannah discover that the competition is with herself?

If you're a JT fan than you'll this book. Her usual dose of humor and sweet romance is her signature. Picture Perfect is a spin off of the Weddings by Bella series, one of my favorite series. Thompson puts a retro spin on her books with characters that recite old movie or television lines or have themed parties with some of the greatest singers and actors of the past. Anything old is popular now and I love the way Thompson uses that to make her novels unique.

Hannah McDermott is definitely someone that many Christian women can relate to because we've all compared ourselves to others or felt inferior in our professions. It's very easy for Christian authors to create a character that has it all together so they can look for God. Some of the best heroines are the ones that struggle day to day with normal things in life. We can relate. It's refreshing!

So...If you love food, humor, sweet romance, and zany characters Picture Perfect is a must read. And by the way, pick up some of JT's other books. You will quickly become a loyal fan!




Until next time, fashionistas!





VS









Disclaimer: This photo belongs to the author of the blog.

The Wedding Dress...book review

Hello Fashionistas!

It's been a while since I've written book reviews. For the past several months I've been working on a few manuscripts and that hasn't left much time to do anything else on the blog.

So...

Here is my review on Rachel Hauck's, The Wedding Dress.

I can not say enough just how much I loved this book. At first I was afraid four stories in one book would be confusing but it wasn't! The book's heroine is Charlotte a bridal boutique owner from Birmingham. She's engaged to Tim but isn't sure she should marry him. Charlotte purchases a wedding gown in a trunk with a past. The gown itself is a hundred-years-old.

I'm a big Rachel Hauck fan and have read most of her books. I knew this was a must read! That mysterious gown with all its secrets and the desire to find out where it came from kept me turning the page. I finished this book in a few hours because I couldn't put it down! Lots of twists and turns with a surprise ending. Hauck pulls you into the story and doesn't let go. Hauck weaves tale of romance, devotion, history, discovery, and redemption. Beautifully done! I also think this would make a fine movie, one I'd actually pay money to see at the theater.

I encourage any woman with a love and passion for Christian fiction romance to give this book a whirl. You won't regret it!




Have a wonderful day!






Until next time, fashionistas,



VS 








Disclaimer: This photo belongs to the blog and author and is from her personal phone photo album.

Lunch date with Kyoko

I'm absolutely giddy at this moment as I sit here waiting for Kyoko. She's one of my favorite characters from Jennifer Roger Spinola's Southern Fried Sushi series. 

Maybe I'll order a house salad while I wait. I'm sure she won't mind. Mmmm. I can almost taste the ginger house dressing. I'm sure Kyoko may want to snap a few pics on her phone, so she can forward them to Shiloh. Ha!

The glass door swiftly opens splashing the dark restaurant with radiant light. She looks around and I wave. With confidence, she strides toward me. Butterflies flutter around in my stomach. A desire to hug Kyoko rushes over me, but I remember she's not much for affection.

We greet each other and she takes a seat directly across from me, sliding her trendy bag beside her. I take out my notepad and we begin our lunch date/interview.

VS: Shiloh found herself in some crazy situations. Many! How would you have handled the stalker?

Kyoko: Me? I would've hacked his account and stalked HIM. Let him try that on for size.

VS: Would you ever move to Staunton for any reason at all?

Kyoko: You're joking, right? I mean, I do realize there are lots of good reasons people choose to live in small Southern towns ... like... maybe to raise sheep or work on their varmint hunting skills. Or to dust off their deep fryer and put it to work. But since I wouldn't know how to deep-fry a polecat to save my life, welll... um... no.

VS: Tell me the truth, Kyoko, you love NASCAR, right?

Kyoko: As much as I love cowboy boots with flames up the sides.

VS: Speaking of flames, what do you think Carlos is up to now?

Kyoko: Carlos? Probably working on his "the world loves me" narcissistic modeling career - and on his fifth girlfriendthis year. The little schemer. I hope he drives his snotty little Prius right into one of his cardboard modeling cut-outs.

VS: What was your least favorite thing about living in Japan?

Kyoko: Do you want the whole list? For starters, having to cram myself into too-small clothes that look more like table doilies than anything resembling clothing. Did you know women over thirty aren't supposed to wear red? Like... it's too bright and "young" for them? Give me a break. And don't get me started on 1) the trash or 2) the crows. Did I mention that I also had to order every single pair of shoes from the U.S.? Where people wear larger than a size 6?

VS: How do you think Shiloh will manage without your Japanese care packages?

Kyoko: Poor thing. I really have no idea. She'll probably spend a fortune on inter-country shipments of miso paste and green tea. Scratch that - Shiloh won't have a fortune so long as she's married to that farmer and working for a small-town newspaper like the Leader. So she'll have to settle for dusty, month-old rice crackers from Wal-mart's Asian section. Which are probably made in China anyway.

VS: Sounds about right. Ha!

Our waiter slides up to take our order. Kyoko opens the large deep red and black menu and so do I.

VS: I guess that wraps up this interview. Thanks for tagging along with me. It's been fun. Maybe I'll fill you in on the rest of our lunch date.

Until next times, fashionistas! 

Disclaimer: Book photo from web of the Southern Fried sushi series. 

Disclaimer: Sushi photo from morguefile.com